Question

How can I serialize and archive the state of game objects into a database when they require pointers to each other? Is there a way to serialize custom objects beyond just primitive data types? Should I be archiving the pointers? Or would a better approach be to give each object an unique ID so I can rebuild the relationship later?

I’m hoping someone can breakdown the general approach I should be taking for saving an iOS game to the server for later retrieval by other devices/players. I know this seems broad, but I’m just looking for the bullet point break down of the technologies/libraries/classes I should be using.

The game has already be developed, I’m just not sure how to save and encrypt the state server side. I’m thinking of using AFNetworking, but I need to save all the objects of a relatively complex game. It seems a JSON object with primitive data types won’t cut it.

Answer 1

Use core data. That’s why it is there. Straight from their docs…

The Core Data framework provides generalized and automated solutions
to common tasks associated with object life-cycle and object graph
management, including persistence.

Intro to Core Data Programming Guide: http://developer.apple.com/library/mac/#documentation/cocoa/Conceptual/CoreData/cdProgrammingGuide.html